Although not the fastest nor bravest animal on the planet she could possibly be the sweetest here in the Russian River area. Luna is of the breed "Black Mouthed Cur" and her lineage goes back centuries.  Luna's fore- fathers are thought to have arrived on the North American continent with the Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto.  A far cry from the Russian River area but stay with me.  Soto's canines were mostly Mastiffs and Greyhounds that were used for hunting and literally scaring the hell out of the native population.  Many of the dogs were left behind and began breeding with the local North American Dingo, resulting in a very intelligent breed with lots of stamina, excellent for hunting, herding and all around work.

The Black Mouth Cur breed is a very popular one with hunters  ranchers and plan old everyday dog lovers,  whom you will find in abundance in the Russian River Area. The Russian River area is a beautiful area to live for dog and human alike with plenty of open space affording the canines plenty of room to romp.  Up and down the river you'll see doggies swimming after the thrown stick.  In Luna's case I have to watch for fishermen and women as she has a tendency to chase their lure and perhaps, god forbid, get hooked.  Up in  the hills surrounding the Russian River Valley and numerous tributary valleys are thousands of acres devoted to hunting.  Wild Boar hunting  is one of my favorites as well as Luna's.  It is no wonder she sometimes gets a little nervous when we are out for a leisurely walking and hears rattling in a bush, she has seen  many a wild Boars come charging out of bushes.

The first time I saw Luna she was seven weeks old carrying a cloth duck in her mouth.  Her ears were the same size they are today so you can get an idea just how cute she was as a pup.  This was at the airport when she arrived to the Russian River area from her breeder in Louisiana.  She loved that duck,  sleeping with it and carrying it around until the fabric finally wore completely out a few years latter.  We both feel very lucky to be living in the Russian River area with it's beautiful landscape, friendly people and river running right down the middle.

Set high in the Pacific Coast hills 34+acres of land is lauding  over the beautiful Russian River valley.  With sunshine mingle through the rolling hills and meadows of the coastal range sits this wonderful piece of land for sale high  above Guerneville. The flora include Douglas Iris, Indian paint brush, Buttercups, Lupines, Brodiaes, along with Oak, Pine, Fir, maple, Madrone and Hemlock  trees.

Fauna include squirrel, deer, raccoon, fox, coyote, skunk, bobcat, and an occasional black bear or mountain lion.  The three buildings that are situated within the 34 acres are each unique.  The Russian River valley makes for spectacular views through out the day but in the evenings as the sun is setting with the marine layer  poised just offshore, gorgeous hues of reds and oranges can be seen.  Come check out the seen and call David R. Millar (707) 217-1786.

 ARMSTRONG WOODS

The Coastal Redwood tree, found in the Russian River Valley, is the tallest living organism on our planet.  They can live up to 2,000 years and can grow as tall as 350 feet.  When I am feeling overwhelmed with life I take a walk through this living reminder of my magnitude in the world (or lack thereof) and breath in the fresh oxygen provided by these magnificent wonders.  I am blessed to be able to walk with these marvels, living in Russian River area, and take every chance I get to take a deep breath, letting my day to day troubles slip away.  It can be so easy to let life and its minute problems take space in my head.  But by having a disciplined practice of letting go, serenity can be found, especially here in the beautiful setting of Armstrong Woods.

Find peace and serenity here.  There are hundreds of homes for sale in the Russian River Valley, just 90 minutes drive to the bay area. Many folks live here and commute to work and if need be take the drive once a week, it is well worth it.  Life is short, breath deep, and call (707) 217-1786.

HOME ON AUSTIN CREEK, CAZADERO, CALIFORNIA

Rarely will you find a more peaceful community and beautiful environment in one place than Cazadero which  has a rich history as a lumber town and gravel source making it similar to many communities around the Russian River Valley.  Austin Creek, one of the last large streams to supply the Russian River before she makes her way to the pacific ocean at Jenner, is a rare phenomenon in northern California.  The source of the river is an area high in the coastal range known as The "Cedars" but  little is known about it.

The geologically unique 11 square mile land mass named The Cedars was recently acquired by the State to preserve and study as the head waters of Austin Creek.  Periodite from the earth mantel is going through a geologic process (metamorphic transformation) resulting in the lovely green stone we know as serpentine.  Austin Creek consisting of the spring water that flows out of this landscape and flows right through the backyard of  this gorgeous home for sale in Cazadero.

Much of the Austin Creek's bed glow with the wondrous green hue which comes form the Serpentine rock formed at it's source. The home for sale has a private beach formed by one of the many bends in the creek as it meanders down to the Russian River.  With great light all day, a grove of redwood trees on the north side and babbling creek in the back  this secluded home and it's detached granny unit (poosible income property) have privacy, tranquility and views that are a must see.

HOME ON AUSTIN CREEK, CAZADERO, CALIFORNIA

Rarely will you find a more peaceful community and beautiful environment in one place than Cazadero which  has a rich history as a lumber town and gravel source making it similar to many communities around the Russian River Valley.  Austin Creek, one of the last large streams to supply the Russian River before she makes her way to the pacific ocean at Jenner, is a rare phenomenon in northern California.  The source of the river is an area high in the coastal range known as The "Cedars" but  little is known about it.

The geologically unique 11 square mile land mass named The Cedars was recently acquired by the State to preserve and study as the head waters of Austin Creek.  Periodite from the earth mantel is going through a geologic process (metamorphic transformation) resulting in the lovely green stone we know as serpentine.  Austin Creek consisting of the spring water that flows out of this landscape and flows right through the backyard of  this gorgeous home for sale in Cazadero.

Much of the Austin Creek's bed glow with the wondrous green hue which comes form the Serpentine rock formed at it's source. The home for sale has a private beach formed by one of the many bends in the creek as it meanders down to the Russian River.  With great light all day, a grove of redwood trees on the north side and babbling creek in the back  this secluded home and it's detached granny unit (poosible income property) have privacy, tranquility and views that are a must see.

AUSTIN CREEK HOME FOR SALE IS WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE OF THE CREEK

Would you like a babbling brook to watch from a cozy redwood porch organically nestled in a Cazadero hill side;  listen to the soothing sound of water flowing over rock and earth as it makes its way down to Austin Creek.  This home for sale in Cazadero is  where you'll find your bliss.  About 40 yards away from the south side of the house is a Rill, a 5 foot wide brook that feeds into Cazadero's Austin Creek.   To listen to nature's sounds and view her soothing showplace of vegetation and wildlife does one wonders to reawaken the creative side. The State of California has recognized the importance of real estate in Cazadero and adjacent areas such as Guerneville, by creating  State Natural Reserves and Recreation Areas in them.

The Austin Creek State Recreation Area (SRA) was established to allow the public to experience this wonderful part of California.  One of the historic remnants found in the Austin Creek (SRA) is the Pond Family Pottery buildings,  where internationally renown ceramic artist Marguerite Wildenhain worked and lived.  She was inspired by the peace and natural beauty of the Austin Creek area.  The home for sale at 6100 Austin Creek Road in Cazadero is just a few minutes walk to Beautiful Austin Creek.

Cazadero is a quiet community of homes spread far and wide with it's own Fire Department, Post Office,  General store and a host of other small shops and services available.  Take a drive and visit nearby Jenner, Annapolis or Stewarts Point all on the Pacific Coast.  Or take a walk along the miles of trails and dirt roads there for the hiking.  Homes for sale in Cazadero are few, pricing is good now and interest rates are only going to rise.

Northwood Golf Course.

Built in 1928 by the famed golf course architect Alister MacKenzie, Northwood Golf Course is our Diamond in the Ruff.  MacKenzie was introduced to the area by another famed golf course architect Jack Neville who designed Pebble Beach course and club house.  In 28' the members of the local Bohemian Club desired an additional respite from their working lives and as we know Golf was and is The gentlemen s game.  The course came out  a masterpiece and is well respected through the golfing world. In addition to golf at the Northwood Golf course there are several other leisurely actives to be found.

The Northwood restaurant where the burgers are to die for and the atmosphere friendly, laid back  is just a sand wedge away from the finishing hole and makes  the exercise you just accomplished well worth it.  There is a view of the first hole so you  can critique the palyers golf skills.  Next to the restaurant is just a super splendid garden where weddings receptions and other events are hosted.  From here there is an exception view of the majestic redwood trees as they line the 9th fairway.

Another one of MacKenzie's designes is Pasatiempo, built sometime in the twenties near Santa Cruz, where one day Ben Hogan and Mackenzie were playing golf. Hogan, the most famous golfer of all time, was looking for an architect to design a course  in Augusta Georgia. Apparently he like the cut of MacKenzie's jib and assigned him the task.   Augusta National is now  the most famous course in America, perhaps the world.

Northwood Golf Course is lined with beautiful homes, many built back in the day. A few have nets up to protect them from the errant tee shot.  The homes on the back side are really lovely and have easy river access.  If you are interested in real estate on the course click on this link for good information, David R. Millar.

The idea of having an Alister MacKenzie designed golf course right in our back yard is amazing and Northwood golf course is just that.  Be sure to bring your patience when you tee it up here at Northwood golf course as it is a tough test.  The slim fairways are  predominately lined with towering redwood trees and the thud of ball on tree can be heard constantly.  See you there.

GUERNEVILLE’S SUMMER BRIGDES

Guerneville’s two annual bridges are constructed in June and remain erected until late September.  The bridges are built to raise the water level in the river for Guerneville water enthusiasts.  Kayaks, Canoes, and all modes of floatational devices are used to float around the easy moving waterway.  These can be rented locally, right on Johnson’s beach, or brought in.

 I remember several years ago jumping on a inner tube from a car tire and thinking I was going to  make my way down stream to the ocean.  Well after about four hours I had made it about a half mile because of the slowness of the current, undoubtedly due to the summer bridges, which is why they are installed. These bridges make it possible for water lovers of all types to enjoy the leisurely river.  If you want to make it the ocean you’ll just have to portage at the two dams.  Or better yet begin your journey after the dam at the “summer bridge”.

 Portaging is old method for adventurers to travel rivers with blockades by hauling the craft overland around the obstruction.  At Summer Beach, which is at the second of Guerneville’s two temporary dams, signs point the way out and back into the old river.  From there you can go ahead and try to make it the pacific, but you better bring some paddles as the current remains slow even after the barriers.

Guerneville’s beaches are wonderful in the late spring, summer and early fall when you can spread out a blanket open up a good book and relax to the sounds of summer. If you are looking for a home in the vacation beach area try contacting David R. Millar. During Winter months the river has a tendency to roar and it  is not recommended for swimming.  However steelhead fishing can be had in the winter but if you happen to hook one of the Chinook Salmon, on their way to spawn up stream, you’ll have to release it.  From Guerneville I say have a great summer on and off the river.

ROCKIN THE RIVER 2013 ON THE RUSSIAN RIVER

This year’s “Rockin the River” held in Guerneville on the Russian River has started out with a thud.  Yes a thud as in the tender plucking of a Blue grass bass holding the melody together for “High Country” one of northern California’s  premier “Americana” bands.  The Music seemed to bring out the best in folks as they danced and Hola Hooped their way around the old Guerneville  Plaza, a stone’s throw away from Johnson’s Beach on the Russian River.

 The Bands begin their playing every other Thursday around Six pm while the Farmer’s Market, right next door, is in the middle of it’s day, selling ripe juice fruit and veggies grown locally in the beautiful Russian River Sun.  You’ll also find lovely handcrafted jewelry along the old metal truss walking bridge constructed in 1922 and a cozy spot to gaze out on the old rolling Russian River as she makes her way to Jenner by the Sea.

 One of my favorite things to do is grab a slice of pizza and sit down and watch the patrons and dancers grove to the Band.  Guerneville  on “Rockin The River” Thursday’s is an eclectic mix of locals and visitors form all over northern California and the world bringing with them a mixture that makes this part of the world so colorful.

 The Russian River  is an ideal location for festive occasions with its temperate climate and laid back feel. I know the grapes love it as it is home to some of the world’s finest vineyards. I understand the next band to be showcased is the Royal Society Jazz Orchestra, capturing sounds from the jazz and big band eras. “Rockin the river” in Guerneville on the Russian River is one of many celebrations hosted here.  See you there!